Here Begins the Dark Sea

"Praise for Inventing the World ""Here Begins the Dark Sea is a captivating exploration of Fra Mauro's creation of the most accurate world map of its time. The book takes readers on a journey through the history of mapmaking, revealing the innovative thinking and dedication that went into Fra Mauro's masterpiece. It is a must-read for anyone with an interest in the history of mapmaking or medieval geography.""--Medieval Archives ""A study of one of history's most influential maps. Small provides a fascinating exploration of the impressively detailed mappa mundi created by Venetian monk Fra Mauro. Interesting and approachable, this book will appeal to any student of geography or world history.""--Kirkus Reviews ""Around 1450, the Venetian government commissioned a monk named Fra Mauro to make a mappa mundi, a map of the world. His map is a circle nearly 7 feet in diameter, crammed with illustrations and annotations; the work took several years. When it was done, it was the most detailed and accurate map of the known world that anyone had yet made. Here Begins the Dark Sea is an engaging guide to Fra Mauro's times and techniques.""--The Wall Street Journal ""Small catalogs a dizzying array of Venetian innovations in this illuminating account. Small enlivens her research with personal anecdotes about her love for Venice, and moves fluidly from one topic to the next. The result is a delightful and informative cabinet of wonders.""-- ""Publishers Weekly"" ""Venice does not lack admirers, but this is an inventive addition. An anthropologist at Cornell, Small emphasizes the city's social structure as she describes ""how one small place had an outsized influence on the development of Western culture."" Venice lovers already familiar with plaudits by other travelers and historians will enjoy this different perspective."" -- ""Kirkus Reviews"""